Gold Medal

05 May 2018

A major upgrade of public space on Napier’s waterfront and three outstanding housing projects have received awards at the 2018 Gisborne / Hawkes Bay Architecture Awards.

The winning projects were announced at a ceremony in Taupō held to celebrate both the Gisborne / Hawkes Bay Architecture Awards and Waikato / Bay of Plenty Architecture Awards. Scroll down for image gallery.

The awards are part of the peer-reviewed New Zealand Architecture Awards programme run by the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) and sponsored by Resene. The programme sets the benchmark for the country’s building projects and recognises the contribution of architects to their towns and communities.

Daniels said the jury was impressed by the quality of the improvements to Napier’s Marine Parade foreshore reserve, which were designed by Paris Magdalinos Architects.

“The wide boardwalks and gardens, which connect with pedestrian and cycle paths and link back to the city centre, are providing new ways for people of all ages to enjoy the area and access Napier’s Ocean Beach,” Daniels said.

“Already large numbers of people are enjoying this new amenity, and the quality of the work will undoubtedly enhance the region’s popularity with tourists.”

Daniels described the Marine Parade Redevelopment as a “rich and layered design that acknowledged both the natural and more recent human history of the Napier waterfront, while also pointing to the future by giving young people centre stage”.

The transformation included the redesign of the existing Marineland grandstand, which is now a support and spectator building for a new skate park.

“The action is laid out for all to see and enjoy,” Daniels said. “The overall experience is one of inclusivity, exuberance and fun.”